Memorial Day Remembrances

As Memorial Day approaches, many of us look forward to a long weekend of fun, rest and relaxation. There is however, a much more solemn side to the holiday - it is a day of remembering those who have died while serving our country. Although over two dozen cities and towns across the country claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially declared Waterloo, New York as the birthplace in May 1966. The first official recognition of Memorial Day was proclaimed by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 5, 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. The order stated that, Decoration Day, as it was originally known, would be "designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land." While you're out and about over the long three-day weekend, don't forget those who died so that you have the freedom to relax and enjoy the holiday. We have some good news for lake enthusiasts and fisherman (and women). The Tonto Basin Ranger District has reopened the Badger and Ringtail boat ramps. The added launching facilities should make it even easier to access beautiful Roosevelt Lake. The next issue of this publication will be out on June 7, as we have an extra week this month. Until then . . . take care.